adapter

noun

adapt·​er ə-ˈdap-tər How to pronounce adapter (audio)
a-
variants or less commonly adaptor
Synonyms of adapternext
1
: one that adapts
2
a
: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus
b
: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended

Synonyms of adapter

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Examples of adapter in a Sentence

adapters for the food mixer include a meat grinder and an ice cream maker
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The arm holds 1/4-in bits and resizes to 4-mm bits with an adapter. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 The Ring monitor has a USB-C power port on the bottom and comes with a USB-C cable and a USB AC power adapter. — John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 17 Oct. 2026 So, Mechanism includes a dock adapter that takes a different approach — not necessarily better or worse — than Dbrand did with its Killswitch. — Cameron Faulkner, The Verge, 12 Oct. 2026 Designed with versatility in mind, every strap is interchangeable with the phone adapter that goes right into your own phone case while elevating your outfit for any occasion. — ABC News, 28 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adapter

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of adapter was in 1753

Rhymes for adapter

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Browse Nearby Words

adapted
adapter
adaption
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Cite this Entry

“Adapter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adapter. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

adapter

noun
adapt·​er
variants also adaptor
ə-ˈdap-tər How to pronounce adapter (audio)
1
: someone or something that adapts
2
a
: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of a usually larger device
b
: an attachment for adapting a device for uses not originally intended

Medical Definition

adapter

noun
adapt·​er
variants also adaptor
ə-ˈdap-tər How to pronounce adapter (audio)
1
: one that adapts
2
a
: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus
b
: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended
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